Incredible Archaeological Sites in Africa

Africa’s archaeological sites helped explain some of the greatest mysteries in history of mankind but there are also many that baffle modern scientists. This is because these early societies weren’t supposed to be as advanced. Here is a list of 10 incredible archaeological sites in Africa.

Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania

Olduvai Gorge is one of the most important archaeological sites on earth, let alone Africa. This is owing to the fact that it showcases the progress of human evolution. The fossils found here date back to more than 1.9 million years ago and include evidence of man as a scavenger, hunter and social being. Various types of tools have been discovered as well.

Valley of the Kings, Egypt

From the mid to the late 2nd millennium BC, Egyptian pharaohs and some members of nobility were buried in tombs constructed in the Valley of the Kings. The area has been receiving visitors since antiquity which is evident from Greek and Latin inscriptions on the walls. Unfortunately, not all visitors were tourists and over the centuries most of the 63 tombs in the area have been robbed.

Gedi Ruins, Kenya

Gedi was a city along the Kenyan coast that flourished from the 13th to the beginning of the 17th century. In the 1940s, the archaeologists excavating on the site uncovered some very interesting artifacts. These include items originating from far overseas including Spain, Venice, India and China. The city had an impressive palace, a large mosque and exquisite stone houses.

Laetoli, Tanzania

In 1976, the renowned British paleo-anthropologist Mary Leakey discovered footprints of a hominid in Laetoli. Footprints in volcanic ash revealed that this early man walked in an upright manner. Other footprints were found as well, including from hyenas, rhinos, birds, baboons and even gazelles. The scientific community was astounded since the Laetoli discovery proved that early man was walking upright approximately 3.6 million years ago.

Sterkfontein Caves, South Africa

The Sterkfontein Caves are often referred to as the Cradle of Humankind as there is no other place on earth with a larger number of hominid fossils. To date (paleo-anthropologists have been excavating on the site since the mid-1930s), remains of about 500 hominids have been found with ‘Mrs. Ples’ and ‘Little Foot’ being the most prominent. While ‘Mrs. Ples’ is the most complete skull of Australopithecus ever found, ‘Little Foot’ is one of the most complete early hominid skeletons in the world.

Blombos Cave, South Africa

The Blombos Cave has helped answer many questions about Homo sapiens that occupied the area some 100,000 years ago. The mystery of cultural origin and behavioral patterns of early man is slowly being uncovered here. According to many paleo-anthropologists, modern human behavior can be traced back to this group of Homo sapiens that was shown to be very innovative, well organized and creative. The site was discovered in 1991.

Meroe, Sudan

Meroe was one of the wealthiest cities of the ancient Kingdom of Kush. Established in 800 BC, the city was influenced greatly by the neighboring Egyptian civilization. But in the 3rd century BC, the Egyptian art, language and writing began to disappear. In the 3rd and 4th century AD, Meroe started to decline, mainly due to the collapse of external trade. Nevertheless, the remains of this ancient city which include over 200 pyramids still stand as evidence of its former splendor.

Nok, Nigeria

Nok is a village and an archaeological site in Nigeria which is famous worldwide for its terracotta figurines. The site has been dated to the mid-4 millennium BC (disputed by some) and gave name to the so-called Nok culture. This ancient civilization emerged in Nigeria in the 11th century BC and collapsed around 300 AD for unknown reasons. Archaeological finds reveal that the Nok culture was highly advanced even though West African societies supposed to be primitive at that time.

Koobi Fora, Kenya

The area around Koobi Fora is renowned for sandstones and siltstones containing well preserved remains of hominins and terrestrial mammals dating back as far as 4.2 million years ago. Hominin fossils that have been discovered in Koobi Fora include: Australopithecus anamensis, Australopithecus boisei, Homo habilis, Homo rudolfensis and Homo ergaster. Also found were many stone tools most of which, however, aren’t associated with hominins.

Laas Gaal, Somalia

Laas Gaal is a complex of rockhouses and caves containing rock art dating back to 9,000 BC. The rock paintings shows people worshiping cows with large horns and ceremonial robes. Locals knew about the rockhouses and caves for hundreds of years before a team of French researches discovered the site in 2002. Like many other archaeological sites in Somalia, Laas Gaal hasn’t been fully explored yet.

East Africa Safaris in style, Adventures with a difference

How about skyping live in the African Savannah. Imagine sharing with those you love the wildbeest migration or lion hunt as it happens. When you think of WIFI what comes to mind. Large cities, modern hotels, hotel lobbies in the city, airport lounge, coffee café and so on. It’s all about modern. In this world today almost everything if not all has gone online. Internet is everything. You can find almost all you need on the internet.This is what successful business is all about.

When most Business or corporate executives or families come to Africa they only expect to find internet in the hotels that they will stay in. In this age almost but not all have internet. This shuts down a person’s world until you finish your days on Tanzania & Kenya safari. Unless for those who really want to shut down from the world and enjoy their time in Africa, we have an option.

With this in mind, making WIFI available even while on the safari was born. An idea that has been well accepted by our clients. Skype while on safari is phenomenal with the clients . Pass every detail of the safari and business schedules to friends and families back home. If you are accompanied by family on your trip, we handle it too. IPods and puzzles are provided for children to keep them engaged. They cover the distances without their knowledge. These are comfortable Business and leisure travel safaris with an exceptional experience. While at it, Gather your points and Save for the the next coming trips . A free lunch, dinner or night will be free for you. Travel in Africa and do it in style.

East Africa is a destination with something for everyone: ‘Safari’ is a Swahili word meaning ‘journey’

With lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras and more roaming the diverse and dramatic landscape, stunning white sand beaches overlooking the Indian Ocean, and fascinating cultures from the Maasai people to Arab traders, East Africa is one of the most amazing destinations in the world. Nature Bound Africa will help you discover the richness of East Africa and have the adventure of your life. We will take care of your safety and comfort, while ensuring you get the most out of your African experience.

We specialise in arranging environmentally sensitive safaris within the East African countries of Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda. You can choose from one of our tried and tested safari packages, or you can build your own. Just tell us where you’d like to go, what you’d like to do, and how much time you’ve got, and we will put something together to suit your needs and budget.

Serengeti and Maasai Mara National Parks are undoubtedly the most famous of East Africa’s protected areas, with the annual wildebeest migration attracting thousands of visitors each year. Visiting the highly endangered mountain gorillas, made famous by Dian Fossey and captured in the movie Gorillas in the Mist, is a definite highlight.

For a real African adventure, try hiking in and around the Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Parks also reward travellers with their abundant wildlife. And once you’ve worn yourself and your camera out, head to one of the stunning coastal locations like Zanzibar or southern Kenya. Travel with us and get a true local perspective on these amazing places.

Defying Gravity, Water flows uphill in Kenya

Water defying gravity – going up-hill

It comprises of different ecosystems, unique and diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, the seventh wonder of the world –wildebeests migration, ever smiling and welcoming people bird life and wildlife exposed by the renowned wildlife documentaries.

Experiencing the sights, sounds, smell and first impressions of all above is quite simply beyond expectations. Most people come to see the big five but there is a lot more that has not been exposed and eye catching at that. Some of the experiences are mind blowing. They will be beyond your wildest expectations.

Ever seen where water flows uphill? Guess your answer is no but there is a place in Eastern Kenya where you experience just that. No geologists yet have given a satisfactory explanation for the hills defiance of gravity and may be this should be another wonder of the world. The hill is located in Machakos, 60 kilometers east of Nairobi at a local area known as Kyamwilu.

Some youth keep vigil around the hill so that there can demonstrate the “magic” to you, but its real and not a trick being played on you. With a bottle of water at hand they will pour it o the ground and everyone expects it to flow down hill. But at this magic hill the water flows up hill. Another test is to park you car at the bottom of the hill and engage free gear. The vehicle goes uphill gathering speed as it climbs up to about halfway. The car tends to climb faster if moving backward. Amazing it is. The amazing hill has become an attraction to many. It is a phenomenon that defies gravity.

This is just but one of the few attractions that are just explainable. While on Safari , inquire about this not just the animals and your Kenya safari may be beyond your imagination. info@natureboundafrica.com

A holiday like no other in East Africa

East Africaare countries where you can come face to face with lions and watch a cheetah take its midday nap. It’s a land where elephants have right of way. And it’s a place where the sunset chorus from the waterhole will beat Adele’s latest album hands down.

The world’s best safaris

African Safari Adventures

Let’s face it, The East African heavyweight rarely crops up in a sentence without the word ‘safari’ in it. The Big Five are undoubtedly Kenya’s biggest draw, and within the country’s borders, and south into Tanzania, you’ll find world-famous parks like the Masai Mara National Reserve and The Serengeti National Park. They are home to lions, elephants, leopards – and the rest. Plus, the jagged peak of Mount Kilimanjaro as its cinematic backdrop.

Big cities

Walking in the Footsteps of Early Man

East Africa got a few lesser-known highlights, too, starting with the capital cities, Nairobi, Dar-ee-Salaam, Kampala & Kigali. With all its markets and bazaars, the city are the place to pick up everything from artwork to hand-painted fabrics. Souvenir shopping is sorted all over the cities, although the stand-out here is the coastline, and the string of postcard-worthy beaches that run along it.

Good-looking beaches

white sand beaches

East Africa’s beaches are serious competition for the Caribbean. Blockbusters like Zanzibar, Bamburi and Diani are the places to pull on your wetsuit and explore the nearby coral reefs – or you can just park yourself on the sand. And at the quieter ones like Galu, the only thing to disturb you will be the monkeys eyeing up your lunch.

Diani Beach:

Diani Beach is a large resort on Kenya’s southern coast, about 30 kilometres south of Mombasa. It’s an upscale sort of place with a gaggle of high-class hotels and restaurants, and the beachfront bars give out a relaxed, friendly vibe. But as the name suggests, this spot’s popularity is all down to the beach – you’ve got a whopping 25 kilometres of tropical white sands to play with here.

Watamu:

Most people’s idea of paradise looks a lot like Watamu. On Kenya’s coast, 150 kilometres north of Mombasa, this isolated village is surrounded by plantations of coconut trees and mangrove creeks. It’s got a supersized white beach, perfect for lazing by day and romantic walks at dusk. And just off the shore is a coral reef that’s part of the Watamu Marine National Park and teeming with all creatures great and small.

Bamburi Beach:

As resorts go, Bamburi Beach is pretty modest. Just north of Mombasa on Kenya’s south coast, it’s a purpose-built place that lets the hotels take care of things on the eating and shopping front. It’s quite small, but when you do get out and about you’ll find a really friendly African welcome in the bars here

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Top 10 Things to do in Uganda

Here are our top 10 things to do in Uganda.

Sir Winston Churchill proclaimed Uganda to be “the pearl of Africa” and he certainly wasn’t wrong.

Uganda is a microcosm of Africa. It invigorates the sense like few countries on this earth do, with spectacular sights, fascinating wildlife and an array of exotic flavors and smells. Along with the fantastic safari tours on offer, Uganda provides an abundance of incredible holiday activities. Here are our top 10 things to do in Uganda (in no particular order).

1. Ssese Islands

The Ssese islands see sunsets like this every night. Photo by World Island Info

Many would find it unfathomable that a group of the worlds most luxurious islands can be found in the heart of mainland Africa, however Uganda takes pride in the fact it has lake Victoria, one of the great African lakes and the source of the river Nile.

Lake Victoria also contains 84 tropical islands, of which around 43 are inhabited. These islands are a hidden gem, but now you know about them why not indulge in the island life and bathe in the glorious African sun before furtively sweeping through the island forests, searching for the rich array of wildlife. Evenings are for chatting with locals and eating the fresh fish that you caught that after-noon.

2. Rwenzori National Park

The Rwenzori Foothills are truly mesmerizing. Photo by Sarahemcc.

The Rwenzori National park doesn’t offer treks for the faint-hearted. The mountain ranges are tough but climbers will be rewarded with some of the most scintillating scenery on the planet.

With the diversity of rich plant-life, prodigious waterfalls and stunning glaciers, Rwenzori National Park lists an unrivaled amount of beautiful scenery.

3. Kampala

Bean market in Kampala. Photo by CIAT

Rwanda’s largest city and also it’s capital is one of Africa’s most hospitable spots and undeniably one of its most impressive.

Having ridden the storm of war and corruption throughout the brutal era of Idi Amin, Ugandan’s nowadays are proud and warm people, having put the past behind them and now truly fixed on having a good time and showcasing what their beautiful nation has to offer. Kampala is the greatest example of this.

With attractions such as the Uganda museum, the Ndere center and the Kasubi Tombs, Kampala will thrust you into a mix of historic information and contemporary Africa.

4. Bwindi National Park

Mystical imagery on the Bwindi tour

Bwindi National Park is part of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which is just on the border of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. As you might have guessed by the name, this is an imposing, dense forest that’s only accessible by foot. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you’re looking for wildlife, this is one of the best places in Uganda you can visit as it boasts one of the richest ecosystems in Africa. According to Wikipedia, you’ll find “120 species of mammal, 348 species of birds, 220 species of butterflies and 27 species of frogs.” Not to mention all the chameleons, geckos and other species around.

5. Murchison Falls

crashing waterfalls at Murchison National Park

Murchison Falls is a powerful waterfall on the river Nile. A trip to the waterfall will not only offer the traveler magnificent views, but also a fantastic opportunity to get involved in some fishing. In the area you’ll also find a whole host of diverse wildlife, ranging from crocodiles to giraffes.

6. Nalubale White-Water Rafting

Nalubale offers incredible white-water rafting.

A rafting trip in Uganda might not be the first thing you think of when you imagine your Uganda travels, but those who experience rafting in Nalubale often count it as one of the highlights of their trip. It’s often challenging, but companies in the region offer safety boats to ensure you stay in one piece and have the rafting trip of a lifetime.

7. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Rhino’s are one of Africa’s greatest attractions

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is one of Uganda’s highlights, and is found about 176km from Kampala (the Ugandan capital).

The sanctuary is run by the Uganda Wildlife Authority in collaboration with the Rhino Fund Uganda and Ziwa Ranchers Limited. Here you can enjoy seeing families of rhinos in a protected habitat.

8. Ndere Centre

Tribal men put on a spectacle at the Ndere Centre, Uganda

The aim of the Ndere Centre, in their own words, is to “rekindle, rehabilitate, galvanize, promote and sustain the positive sense of pride, confidence, self radiance and efficacy of the Ugandan person as… a contributing member of the global human family.” No shortage of ambition from these guys.

You’ll find the Ndere Centre to be a great source of information about Ugandan culture. Those seeking to know more about the country’s music, dance and traditions will be delighted by their shows and their barbecues are also well worth checking out.

9. Kibale National Park

Cheeky chimp in Kibale National Park. Photo by Sarahemcc

Track the trails of the ubiquitous Chimpanzee in this special primate trekking adventure. With 12 other primates to look out for, you will certainly witness the everyday life of hundreds of cheeky swinging monkeys.

10. Straddle the Equator

This cyclist is just about to change hemispheres

Stand on the middle of the equator and let your imaginations run wild. A great photo opportunity more than anything but who wouldn’t want to have one foot in the northern hemisphere and one in the south.

Great sites like these are kept possible by conservation centers like the Uganda Conservation Foundation – facilitating practical conservation projects to benefit wildlife, habitats and the present and future local population.

Uganda can be hard to get around, in which case I love using this triposo travel app, the perfect tool for not missing a beat when I’m traveling – “delivering up-to-date information, detailed maps and intelligent recommendations.”

Uganda the pearl of Africa

Its reputation of being Africa’s friendliest country originates from the fact that traditionally hospitality is a key element to its diverse population. Uganda is well known for its low level of crimes and hassles towards tourists. As one of the mysteries of the Victorian age you can go back in time as you view the source of the Nile that starts here and flow all the way to Egypt. Be part of history that was once here.

Uganda is Africa’s most complete bird-watching destination

Within an area comparable to that of Great Britain, Uganda is Africa’s most complete bird-watching destination with more than a thousand species recorded here. Spread across both sides of the equator one can have the opportunity to experience the biodiversity of the various national parks and protected areas across the country. Uganda’s star attraction lies divided between Bwindi National Park and the Virunga Mountains here lays the endangered mountain gorilla the bulkiest of all living primates.

Lakes and Rivers

This country is endowed with mesmerizing tracts of thorn-bush savannah teaming with various rainforests. Lakes and rivers heavy with aquatic life and the glacial peaks of Africa’s tallest mountain range. Uganda chose to embrace eco-tourism based on the fact that it promotes low-impact tourism avoids the adverse environmental effects of traditional tourism and from the sale of natural resources. Adding to this choice of tourism is the fact that it also appeals to different groups of people such as tourists, environmentalists, businesses as well as governments.

Given the ever rising concerns and threats that global warming poses, Uganda has continued to practice eco-tourism to minimize the negative effects that global warming would not only cause to her environment but also her tourism industry.